Richard Solomon And Associates in Baltimore: Established Optometry Practice in Federal Hill
Richard Solomon And Associates is a full-service optometry practice located in Baltimore's Federal Hill neighborhood that provides comprehensive eye exams, prescription glasses, contact lens fitting, and management of common eye conditions. The practice has operated in the area for decades and serves a mix of existing patients and new referrals seeking routine vision care and eyewear.
What the practice handles
The office conducts standard eye exams to measure refraction, check eye health, and screen for conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration. Patients receive prescription glasses and contact lens services; the practice fits both soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses and offers follow-up care for contact lens wearers. The doctor can diagnose and manage dry eye, presbyopia, and mild eye strain, and will refer patients to ophthalmologists for surgical needs or advanced disease.
The practice does not perform refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK), cataract surgery, or retinal procedures. Those patients are directed to specialized eye surgeons elsewhere in Baltimore.
Pricing and insurance
Exact current fees should be confirmed by phone, as prices shift with materials costs and supplier agreements. Comprehensive eye exams typically range from $150 to $250 depending on age and complexity. Frames are stocked in-house and priced according to brand and material, usually $100 to $400 per pair. Single-vision lenses add $100 to $300; progressive lenses (no-line bifocals) run $300 to $600. Contact lens fitting fees are typically $75 to $150 separate from the exam, and lens costs vary by brand and replacement schedule.
The practice accepts most major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Vision Insurance Plans (VSP and EyeMed). Medicaid vision coverage is accepted for eligible patients. Out-of-pocket patients should ask about package pricing for exam and glasses bundles.
How it compares to other Baltimore optometrists
Federal Hill and the surrounding Inner Harbor neighborhoods have several optometry options. Lenscrafters (Inner Harbor, at The Gallery) stocks a large frame selection, offers same-day glasses in many cases, and accepts most insurance; it suits patients who prioritize speed and frame variety. Pearle Vision (multiple Baltimore locations) is also insurance-friendly and offers budget frames. Richard Solomon And Associates typically has longer patient relationships and may offer more flexibility for complex prescriptions or contact lens cases, though appointment lead times can be longer. For patients prioritizing convenience and rapid turnaround, Lenscrafters is faster; for personalized care and continuity, Solomon's is often the better choice if you can wait for an appointment.
Who it suits and who it does not
The practice is well suited to patients seeking routine eye exams, eyewear, and management of common refractive errors and age-related changes. Existing patients value the familiarity and history the doctor has with their eyes. It suits contact lens wearers who want ongoing support for fit and comfort.
It is not the right choice for patients who need refractive surgery evaluation, urgent eye trauma care (go to an emergency room or urgent ophthalmology clinic), or advanced diagnosis of rare eye diseases. It may not be ideal for patients who demand same-day or next-day appointments; wait times for new patients can stretch two to four weeks depending on season.
What to expect on your first visit
Allow 45 minutes to an hour. You will complete a health history form that includes family eye disease, medications, and any current vision complaints. The eye exam itself takes 20 to 30 minutes and includes tests for visual acuity, eye pressure, peripheral vision, and a dilated eye exam to view the retina and optic nerve. The doctor discusses the results and writes a prescription for glasses or contacts if needed.
If you are purchasing glasses, you select frames during or shortly after the exam, and the practice measures pupil distance and submits the prescription to the lens lab. Glasses are typically ready in seven to ten business days. Contact lens fittings involve additional time to verify lens fit and comfort before you leave with a trial pair.
Hours, location, and parking
The practice operates at a Federal Hill address; hours are typically Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but these should be confirmed before your visit. Street parking is available on the block, though it can be competitive during daytime hours; paid lots are nearby on Cross Street and around the neighborhood.
Richard Solomon And Associates holds a place in Baltimore's optometry landscape for patients who value an established practice with continuity of care over the speed and retail convenience of larger chains.
